Maureen P. Compton

1938 - 2023

Waterford - Maureen P. (Lydon) Compton, 85, of Waterford, transitioned peacefully Friday, Nov. 24, from complications of COPD.

Maureen was born a continent away to Michael and Bridget (Power) Lydon in London, England on Oct. 22, 1938, remaining a proud British citizen until a few years ago. Although Maureen's childhood was significantly impacted by World War II, she enjoyed an upbringing full of love. Her dedication to family was the pillar of her life and also her greatest legacy, having instilled that same belief in her children who carry it forward in her honor.

Ready for an adventure after finishing her education, Maureen planned an extended trip to Boston, Mass., USA in late 1957. That decision led her to meet her soulmate and she married Clifford Compton in Boston in Nov. 1958. They shared nearly 56 years of wedded bliss before Cliff's passing in 2014. True partners, they raised three children together, Suzanne, Patricia, and Stephen, many of the years with Cliff at sea with the Navy, and Maureen and the children in Waterford where they made their home together beginning in 1960. Making the most of time where the five of them were together, her children will cherish memories of countless parties with friends, trips to the family cabin in Maine, and perhaps most importantly, the everyday magic Maureen created at home for her family. Maureen's secret to success was her kindness, her fairness, and her consistency. She always showed up.

Maureen's natural disposition led her to a career working with young children. Once her own children were in school full time, she spent twenty-five years running ABC nursery school in Groton with her friends Lora and Carol. Her caring, consistent nature benefited countless young lives. As that chapter closed, she embraced her role as a grandmother, attending every game, event, and competition possible. Maureen was an excellent Mom, but a superior Grammy. Each of her grandchildren shared a special bond with her even as adults because of the integral role she played in their lives.

Maureen may have never returned to England to live full time after leaving in 1957, but you could not take Britain out of the girl - she enjoyed a good cup of tea until the very end. One of the only ways to offend Maureen was to offer her microwaved water- use a kettle or don't bother! She spent summers visiting with her children, ensuring her kids knew their grandparents and cousins across the pond. Lucky for Maureen, her childhood best friend, Glenys, also made her home in southeastern Connecticut, ensuring no amount of physical distance could keep Maureen away from the people or place who shaped her into the wonderful woman she was.

Maureen leaves her daughters, Suzanne Brochu (Gary) and Patricia Thomson (Scott); and her son, Stephen (Gwen). In addition, she is survived by her beloved grandchildren, Lynsey (Colin) Chelsea, Alyssa (Evan), Tyler and Matthew; and four great-grandchildren, Lyla, Jack, Kiersten and Alicia. Her brothers, John (Brenda) and Michael (Mary) also survive her. She was predeceased by her parents; her infant sister Mary; husband Clifford; grandson Christopher; and many friends.

Maureen's family invites you to celebrate her life with a Mass of Christian Burial at 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023, at St. Joseph Church Squire Street New London. Please visit www.neilanfuneralhome.com to leave the family an online condolence.

In lieu of flowers, please consider bringing a cash donation to Maureen's services. All funds collected will be donated to local organizations that provide children and families with support during the holiday season.